Imprinted Paws

4.7 Stars,116 Reviews
5019 Grove Rd, Oswego, IL 60543

Service area: Serves Oswego, IL and surrounding areas including Naperville and Plainfield, within a 20-mile radius of 5019 Grove Rd.

Service Overview

Types of Dog Training

  • Family Dog
  • Behavior Modification

Specialty Focus Areas

  • Leash Pulling
  • Reactivity / Aggression
  • Jumping on People
  • Barking Excessively
  • Separation Anxiety
  • Biting / Nipping
  • Potty Training
  • Resource Guarding
  • Fearfulness
  • Recall

Training Formats Offered

  • Private Lessons
  • Group Classes
  • In-Home
  • Private Facility
  • Board and Train

Program Formats

  • Intensive Program
  • Sessions Package
  • Ongoing Weekly

Types of Dogs

  • Small
  • Medium
  • Large
  • Giant
  • Working
  • Terriers
  • Doodles

Age of Dogs Trained

  • Puppy (<1 year)
  • Adolescent (1-2 years)
  • Adult (2-8 years)
  • Senior (8+ years)

Dog Training Methodology

Methods: 

  • Positive Reinforcement Only
  • Positive with Some Corrections
  • Balanced Training

Equipment: 

  • Clickers
  • Food Rewards
  • Harnesses
  • Flat Collars
  • Martingale Collars
  • Pinch Collars
  • E-Collars
  • Obstacle Courses

Imprinted Paws offers four main programs: Board and Train (2–6 weeks) for intensive behavior modification; Private Training (4–8 weeks, weekly sessions) with personalized program sheets; In-Home Training for territorial and household issues; and Group Classes for obedience and distraction work, requiring prior leash control. Rehabilitation combines private, board, and group elements for severe cases. All programs emphasize owner education and consistency. Boarding is offered post-training as a continuation service.

Pricing & Policies

Pricing Summary

Pricing is not publicly listed; programs vary by duration and type. Board and train ranges from 2–6 weeks with increasing cost based on complexity. Private training lasts 4–8 weeks with weekly sessions. Group classes require prior foundation training. Boarding is available only to past clients at a rate not specified.

Policies

No explicit cancellation or rescheduling policies are stated on the website. Boarding is restricted to clients who have previously completed training with Imprinted Paws. All programs require owner commitment to daily practice for success.

Testimonials

“I just had the BEST walk with my dogs this morning. Why? Because Val at Imprinted Paws has been working with me for the past couple of weeks and has empowered me (and them) to be the very best we can be. I’m so impressed. I can’t say enough about her. She is truly a canine whisperer and has taught me to do the same. I’ve spent a ton of money at other places trying to get this behavior from my dogs and she has given me the tools necessary to do it myself. She knew from the first couple of minutes of meeting my dogs what each one of them is like and how they need to be trained individually. Thank you, Val! You are a Godsend!”
– Heather Vandermale

“We sent our two 4-month-old puppies, Teddy and Pixie, to the three-week training program at Imprinted Paws, and the difference is unbelievable… They walk perfectly on a leash now — calm, focused, and actually enjoyable to take outside. They sleep through the night in their crates… We are genuinely grateful for what Imprinted Paws has done for our dogs and for our home.”
– Anonymous Client

“We got two pitbull/shepherd mix puppies… that developed littermate syndrome… Val and her team did absolutely amazing. I can now say we have a family dog. Who we can take on walks, have company over, eat dinner in peace… I highly recommend Val and her team.”
– Anonymous Client

About the Trainer

Imprinted Paws is a dog training business founded by Valerie Nicole Iannello, a professional trainer with 17 years of hands-on experience. They offer personalized training programs tailored to all breeds, ages, and temperaments, with a focus on building strong foundations through manners and obedience. Their services include private training, in-home training, group classes, board and train programs, and rehabilitation for serious behavioral issues like aggression, anxiety, and reactivity. They also provide pet boarding exclusively for clients who have completed training with them, ensuring consistency and a familiar environment. Valerie emphasizes empowering owners by teaching them how to communicate effectively with their dogs, making training sustainable at home. They also offer pack walks and support dog adoption through their rescue partnerships.

Their board and train programs range from 2 to 6 weeks, targeting specific issues from leash walking to severe aggression. Private training is structured as weekly sessions over 4–8 weeks with personalized program sheets. In-home training addresses territorial behaviors and household manners. Group classes require a solid foundation and include Canine Good Citizen preparation. They also offer internship programs for aspiring trainers, providing over 1,000–2,500 hours of hands-on experience.

Imprinted Paws is known for its high-touch, owner-focused approach, with trainers who assess each dog individually and adapt methods to the owner’s lifestyle. Clients report dramatic improvements in behavior, leash control, and home harmony, with many praising Valerie’s ability to transform even the most challenging cases. They also provide real-time updates via social media during board and train programs, keeping owners informed and involved.

Accomplishments

Valerie Nicole Iannello has 17 years of hands-on training experience and completed 6,000 hours of volunteer work with animal shelters and rescues. She has studied under multiple trainers in working, service, and pet dog disciplines. She founded Imprinted Paws with a focus on replicating successful owner-dog relationships through education and practical application.

How to Get Started!

Prospective clients are encouraged to call or email to discuss their dog’s needs and determine the best program fit. No free consultation is offered. The process begins with an initial phone or in-person assessment to evaluate the dog’s behavior and the owner’s goals before recommending a program.

Imprinted Paws featured image for this Dog Trainer
  • 18+ Years Experience

  • Free Consultation

Availability

  • Weekdays
  • Weekends
  • Morning
  • Afternoon
  • Evening

Languages

  • English
  • wheelchair accessible parking

Other Services Offered

  • Pet boarding service

Location

5019 Grove Rd, Oswego, IL 60543

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